Vail gardner law
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My blog can be a helpful resource as you plan your estate.
Information is powerful when putting together your estate plan. At Vail Gardner Law, I update my blog regularly with helpful estate planning information, as well as updates about my upcoming estate planning workshops and other news about my law firm in Durham, North Carolina.
The information on this website is for general information purposes only. It should not be taken as legal advice for any situation. By viewing this website, no attorney-client relationship is established.
What is Fair in a Second Marriage and Estate Planning?
If you are divorced or widowed, you may wonder what is fair in a second marriage and estate planning. Learn to plan for your future together.
What Does Incapacitated Mean?
You would never choose to become unable to care for yourself or make your own decisions. No one wants a guardian as an adult. But what exactly is the legal definition of “incapacitated?” Learn what “incapacitated” and “incompetent” mean in the legal realm.
Top Reasons To Make a Will Update & Check Your Estate Plan
We don’t like to think about what will happen if we get sick or die. It is not a topic we regularly discuss with even those closest to us. We don’t really want to spend time planning for end-of-life events or a future that doesn’t include us. Most of us put off the inevitable realization that we will not be here forever. However, without making a will update and editing other estate documents every 3-5 years, your estate plans may fall apart. Find out how to update your estate planning documents and get started today!
Legal To-Dos Before Your Baby Is Born
Buying a crib and diapers and picking out adorable baby clothes are not the only issues to prepare for when you have a baby. Getting ready for a baby also involves legal prep. Let’s look at common legal things to do before your baby is born.
What Is a Successor Trustee?
When you draw up a trust to protect your assets, you also protect your heirs’ future. You may act as a trustee of your own revocable trust. However, your successor trustee will handle the trust after you die. It’s crucial to name a qualified successor trustee since they will distribute your assets to your beneficiaries. Let’s look at what a successor trustee is and when they manage your trust assets.
Who Owns the Property in a Trust?
Trusts are a popular legal tool that can significantly help you and your family. A Living Trust keeps your family out of probate court, your estate private, and can help manage money for heirs that can’t manage a lump sum inheritance. An irrevocable trust can do even more, including helping you qualify for long-term care benefits, qualify for other benefits, and shield assets from divorce, creditors, bankruptcy, and more. Setting up a trust can help you and your family thrive. However, property in a trust no longer legally belongs to you. So who owns the property in a trust?